For many young people in Southeast Asia, the idea of studying abroad often feels exciting but unrealistic. Financial barriers, lack of information, and uncertainty about eligibility can discourage students before they even begin. However, what is often overlooked is the wide range of scholarship opportunities available within the ASEAN region itself, many of which are designed specifically to support youth mobility and regional cooperation.
Scholarships across Southeast Asia come in many forms. Some are funded by governments as part of bilateral or regional cooperation efforts, while others are offered by universities, foundations, or regional organisations. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, living allowances, accommodation, or research costs, depending on the programme. Importantly, many ASEAN scholarships are structured to be more accessible than programmes outside the region, both financially and culturally.
Studying within ASEAN allows students to experience international education without being completely disconnected from familiar social and cultural contexts. While academic systems may differ, shared regional values and historical connections often make the transition smoother. Students gain exposure to new perspectives while still engaging with issues that are relevant to Southeast Asia, such as sustainable development, governance, technology, and social innovation.
Beyond academics, scholarships play a key role in building regional networks. Students who study in another ASEAN country often form lasting friendships and professional connections with peers from across the region. These networks can be valuable long after graduation, particularly as ASEAN integration continues to shape employment and collaboration opportunities.
Despite these benefits, many scholarships remain underutilised simply because students are unaware of them or unsure where to begin. Information is often scattered across different platforms, websites, and institutions, making the search process overwhelming. This is where having a centralised platform becomes especially important.
At OneASEAN, we aim to make scholarship opportunities across Southeast Asia more visible and accessible to youth. By curating programmes and sharing clear information, we hope to encourage more young people to consider regional study pathways. Scholarships are not only a means of financial support; they are an investment in regional understanding, leadership, and shared progress across ASEAN.
